"L'enfant a une relation différente avec son environnement de la nôtre. L'enfant l'absorbe. Les choses qu'il voit ne sont pas seulement mémorisées; elles font partie de son âme."

Children interact with the world in a way that's fundamentally different from adults. Instead of just noticing and remembering things, they take in their surroundings deeply, letting their experiences shape who they are. It's like their environment becomes part of their very being.

Think about a young child growing up in a bilingual household. They don't just learn words in two languages; those languages become a part of how they think and see the world. They don't simply recall the words—they absorb the cultures, the nuances, and the rhythms of both languages. When they hear their mom singing a lullaby in Spanish and their dad telling a story in English, those moments become integral to their identity.

Maria Montessori, an Italian physician and educator, deeply believed in this idea when she developed her educational philosophy in the early 20th century. She noticed that children are like little sponges, soaking up everything around them. This realization changed how she thought kids should be taught. Instead of just feeding them information, she created environments where they could explore, play, and learn naturally. She understood that the youngest minds were forming through their interactions and experiences.

Imagine a child in a Montessori classroom. There are no strict desks or rigid schedules. Instead, there are various learning stations—areas with puzzles, art supplies, books, and even a small garden. The child isn't just learning math or reading; they're developing a love for discovery. When they plant a seed and watch it grow, they're not just learning about biology. They're learning patience, responsibility, and the beauty of nurturing life. These experiences shape their character.

So, how can you apply this understanding in everyday life? If you're a parent, teacher, or someone who interacts with children, create rich, engaging environments for them. Let them explore and play. Instead of just telling them what to do, give them opportunities to discover and learn on their own. Be mindful of the experiences you expose them to because these experiences will become part of who they are.

Let’s think about a relatable scenario. Picture a child who spends a lot of time in nature with their family. They go hiking, camping, and fishing. They're not just enjoying the outdoors; they're developing a deep connection to nature. They learn about ecosystems, the importance of preserving wildlife, and the joy of outdoor activities. Fast forward to adulthood, and this person might become an environmentalist, a biologist, or simply someone who treasures and protects natural spaces. Their childhood experiences didn't just stick in their memory—they became a part of their soul.

In your everyday interactions with kids, remember that they're not just little adults; they're forming their very essence based on what they experience. So, give them diverse, enriching experiences. Let them play in the mud, paint with all the colors, listen to different types of music, and hear stories from various cultures. These moments will shape them in ways you might not see immediately but will become evident as they grow.

In short, be mindful of the world you're creating for the children around you. It's not just about teaching them facts—it's about helping them build a foundation for who they will become.